The America’s Schooner Cup race sails into action on San Diego Bay on March 29. Sailing enthusiasts can catch the race action at the Silver Gate Yacht Club on Shelter Island, among other vantage points. Courtesy photo

In 1851, the schooner “America” crossed the finish line seven miles ahead of her nearest competitor.

Queen Victoria asked: “Who is second?”

The response: “There is no second.”

America’s victory over the Royal Yacht Squadron fleet, jumpstarted what is known today as the America’s Cup race. Schooners were a British invention, but perfected on this side of the Atlantic by Gloucester fishermen.

Appreciated for their beauty and speed under sail, they flourish today with the same enthusiasm that sent the “America” into history in 1851. Each year on San Diego Bay, the horizon fills with topsails, gollywobblers, gaff rigs and flying jibs.

On March 29, San Diego Bay will play host to the 26th running of America’s Schooner Cup. And they’ll be joined on the starting line by San Diego’s own “America,” a replica of the original.

View the event from Shelter Island on Saturday, March 29 at 11:30 a.m. A concert will then be held at the Silver Gate Yacht Club, located at 2091 Shelter Island Drive, on Sunday, March 30 to benefit the Navy Marine Corps Relief Society.

For concert tickets and more information, email americasschoonercup@gmail.org.